Determination of the Relative Profile of Velocity and Acceleration in Semi-Professional Soccer Players: A Cross-Sectional Study
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The velocity and acceleration of a soccer player varies depending on the specific demands of the field position as well as individual characteristics, establishing the need to determine relative profiles by position. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 18 semi-professional soccer players to determine (i) the specific demands of external load according to playing position, (ii) distances covered at different intensities and the number of sprints, and (iii) the number of accelerations at moderate and high intensity. GPS tracking systems were used to collect data, and the relative acceleration profiles were analyzed based on initial velocity (0–7 km/h; 7.1–14.3 km/h; >14.3 km/h), intensity (moderate 50–75% and high > 75% of maximal acceleration), number of sprints/accelerations, and distance covered. Additionally, relative speed profiles were evaluated through the distance covered at moderate intensity (40–60% Vmax), high intensity (60–75.5% Vmax), very high intensity (>75.5% Vmax), total distance, and number of sprints. Statistically significant differences were observed in the distance covered at moderate and high intensity (midfielders), distance covered sprinting (center backs), and acceleration at moderate and high intensity in all positions (p < 0.05). These findings will enhance the monitoring of external loading strategies and prescription of specific training exercises for soccer players based on their respective playing position, ultimately contributing to optimized performance.
Source: Applied Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/app14188528
Institutions: Universidad Europea de Madrid, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,728
OpenAlex ID: W4402824503